In a chat with Fight Hub TV, Boxxer promoter Ben Shalom discussed how he managed to organize a Joseph Parker vs. Martin Bakole fight at lightning speed, essentially during the day’s final press conference. Shalom admitted that he had never orchestrated a fight so quickly on the spot, highlighting Bakole’s eagerness to step in at the last minute as a major factor.
Reflecting on the process, Shalom remarked, “This is the wildest deal I’ve ever struck. Normally, we like to take things slow. When I saw the tweets about Daniel getting injured, I thought it was just a stunt, just like everybody else after The Ring magazine’s report.”
Even as the press conference was unfolding, Shalom was in discussions with Bakole’s team and asked, “Would you take this fight?” Their response was immediate and enthusiastic, “100% we’re in.” This prompted Shalom to text Alalshikh, “We’re in, we want this fight. If there’s a chance, this is the fight to make.”
Caught up in the negotiations, Shalom found himself almost forgetting the ongoing press conference. After wrapping it up, he paced around, stayed on the phone with Alalshikh, and quickly sealed a deal, cutting through any potential holdups. Bakole was ready for it, hopping on a flight in no time.
“Of course, there’s still plenty to sort out, like medicals and such, but it’s happening,” Shalom continued. “It’s remarkable, and Bakole deserves immense recognition. No other heavyweight would jump in like this, knowing the opponent is Joseph Parker, especially with just two days’ notice. It’s unbelievable.”
Shalom shared a bit more of Bakole’s story, “Two hours ago, Martin got the call while he was in the Congo. He’ll likely finish his meal and come straight here, ready to go. That’s the kind of fighter he is.”
